The District of Columbia Foreclosure Path
| Process Stage | Timing | Legal Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Notice of Default (NOD) | Day 1 | Must be recorded in land records and mailed to the owner. |
| Mediation Election | Day 30 | Homeowners have 30 days to opt into mandatory mediation. |
| Mediation Session | Day 90 | A neutral mediator meets with the lender to discuss options. |
| Notice of Intent (NOI) | Day 120+ | Sent to the Mayor 30 days before any sale can be scheduled. |
| Right to Reinstate | Day 145 | Statutory right to cure ends 5 business days before sale. |
*Per D.C. Code § 42-815. Residential foreclosures are subject to mandatory mediation under the "Saving D.C. Homes from Foreclosure Act."
D.C. Lenders Cannot Skip Mediation
In Washington, D.C., the law is designed to keep you in your home. If you file your Mediation Election Form within 30 days, the lender is legally barred from proceeding to a sale until a mediation certificate is issued. This "Pause Button" is the most powerful tool in your arsenal, providing months of breathing room to restructure your debt or file for federal protection.
D.C. Frequently Asked Questions
What is a "Mediation Certificate"?
A lender cannot sell a residential property in D.C. without a certificate from the Mediation Administrator. This certificate is only issued if you waive mediation, fail to attend, or if the mediation concludes without a resolution.
Is there a Redemption Period in D.C.?
No. The District of Columbia does not provide a post-sale redemption period for non-judicial or judicial foreclosures. Your rights to the property are terminated the moment the auction bidding concludes.
How many times can I "Reinstate" my loan?
Under D.C. Code § 42-815.01, you have the right to reinstate (pay the arrears) up to 5 business days before the sale, but you can only exercise this statutory right once every two years.